Spiti Valley Bike Trip and Backpacking Adventure

A piece of poetry,

a piece of heaven,

A piece of serenity and solitude;

That is the Spiti Valley…

A Spiti Valley tour, whether in summer or winter, is the dream of every traveler. And why is it a dream? It proudly showcases some of the most isolated vistas on the planet and some of the highest human settlements in the world.

As you step into Spiti Valley on your trip, you are greeted by long, winding roads and valleys that offer breathtaking views of the cold desert and snow-capped mountains. Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh sits at an average altitude of 12,500 feet, receiving only about 250 days of sunshine annually. This makes it a high-altitude cold desert and one of the chilliest places in the nation.

The name "Spiti" translates to 'The Middle Land', signifying its location between India and Tibet. This region is adorned with numerous ancient monasteries, including the magnificent Key Monastery—over a millennium old and the largest monastery in Spiti Valley.

With its sparse population, Spiti is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering a plethora of trekking routes and high-altitude passes. The Kunzum La (Kunzum Pass) provides a mesmerizing 360-degree vista of the Bara-Shigri Glacier, the second-longest glacier in the world. Another enchanting destination is Chandratal Lake, where the water can transform from reddish hues to shades of orange, blue, and emerald green as the day progresses.

It is a common myth that Spiti is completely cut off for six months. In reality, heavy snowfall only closes the Manali-Kaza highway (via Kunzum Pass). The route from Shimla via Kinnaur remains accessible almost year-round, making a Winter Spiti tour possible for those seeking a true snow-laden adventure.

Spiti Valley stands as a focal point for spiritual exploration for followers of Buddhism, attracting travelers with its unique history. Its standout feature, the Key Monastery, is recognized as one of the oldest in the world and is a personal favorite of the Dalai Lama. Whether your interests lie in spirituality, history, or the cinematic charm of Spiti, our Spiti Valley tour packages are designed to ensure your trip is both pleasurable and enriching.

Spiti will make you understand the value of little things in life. It's about the moments when we become ourselves, the moments when we find the inner child we lost. It is a valley that will heal you for things that no one ever asked sorry for.

And in every letter, it is true… SPITI VALLEY IS A WORLD WITHIN A WORLD.

A world of simplicity and a world of togetherness.

To begin your Spiti Valley road trip, you have two main routes to consider. The route you take depends heavily on the season.

• Route 1 (Summer): Manali – Kaza – Spiti Circuit
• Route 2 (All-Year): Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza – Spiti

Both routes are part of the Spiti Circuit, a popular Himalayan loop that starts and ends in Himachal Pradesh, covering breathtaking landscapes, high passes, and ancient monasteries.

Summer Route: Manali to Spiti Valley via Kunzum Pass

During the summer months (May to October), Spiti Valley transforms into a paradise for riders and road-trippers. The Manali route is open and fully operational once Rohtang Pass (13,058 ft) and Kunzum Pass (15,060 ft) are cleared of snow.

This Manali to Spiti Valley bike trip route covers approximately 200 km to Kaza and offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Himalayas. Along the way, you’ll pass through Atal Tunnel, Gramphu, Batal, and Losar — each stop offering breathtaking views and small dhabas for travelers.

• Best For: Adventure seekers and bikers
• Highlights: Rohtang Pass, Kunzum La, Chandratal Lake
• Recommended Duration: 8–10 days
• Ideal Season: Mid-May to early October

The summer route also allows you to combine Manali–Spiti–Shimla into a complete circuit bike trip, one of India’s most scenic Himalayan routes.

Winter Route: Shimla to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur

In winter (November to April), heavy snowfall closes the Manali route, including Rohtang and Kunzum passes, making Shimla via Kinnaur the only motorable option.

This Shimla to Spiti Valley bike trip route passes through Narkanda, Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Nako, and Tabo, before reaching Kaza. The gradual ascent via this route helps the body acclimatize better to altitude, reducing the risk of AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) — an important factor for winter travel.

• Best For: Experienced bikers or travelers seeking offbeat winter adventure
• Highlights: Kalpa, Nako Lake, Tabo Monastery, Kaza snowscapes
• Recommended Duration: 9–10 days
• Ideal Season: December to March (with guided support)

Though the journey is challenging, winter in Spiti rewards you with surreal views of frozen rivers, snow-covered monasteries, and a chance to witness Spiti’s rare winter wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard.

Alternative Route: Delhi to Spiti Valley Bike Trip

For travelers beginning their adventure from the capital, the Delhi to Spiti Valley bike trip generally follows the Shimla–Kaza route in winter and the Manali–Kaza–Shimla circuit in summer.

The full circuit from Delhi covers around 1,000–1,200 km, depending on the route taken, with stopovers at Manali, Kalpa, Tabo, Kaza, and Chandratal. This route offers the complete Spiti bike circuit experience, making it one of India’s top-rated road adventures.

The best time to visit Spiti Valley depends entirely on the experience you seek. Spiti is a color-changing canvas that offers two completely different worlds in its two main seasons.

• Summer Season (June to September): This is the ideal and most popular time for a Spiti Valley tour. The weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. Most importantly, this is the only window when the Manali-Kaza route (via Kunzum Pass) is open, allowing for the full bike circuit. This is the perfect time for all outdoor activities, trekking, and sightseeing.
• Winter Season (Late October to March): If you seek a true, rugged adventure and are prepared for extreme cold, winter offers a unique experience. The valley is completely covered in snow, and temperatures can drop as low as -25°C to -30°C. This trip is only possible via the Shimla-Kinnaur route and is a 4x4 expedition, not a bike trip.

Summer Spiti Valley

Best for: Bikers, road trippers, and trekkers

A Spiti Valley trip in summer (from June to late September) transforms the region into a scenic paradise. The valley comes alive with a greener tapestry (in some parts), sparkling blue streams, and clear skies.

This period is ideal for exploring the entire valley, as the snow has melted from the high passes, making the full Spiti circuit accessible. A Spiti Valley bike trip during summer is the ultimate dream for many, offering a thrilling experience on the rugged and challenging terrains of both the Kinnaur and Manali routes.

Winter Spiti Valley

Best for: Snow lovers & extreme adventurers

Spiti Valley in winter (from late October to early March) becomes a mesmerizing, stark white haven. The landscape changes dramatically, offering a challenging adventure. With daytime temperatures hovering around 5°C to 8°C and dropping as low as -30°C at night, a Winter Spiti tour is a sight to behold.

Accessibility is the main challenge. The Manali-Kaza highway is completely closed, so travel is only possible via the Shimla-Kinnaur route. This season attracts adventure enthusiasts looking for Winter Spiti 4x4 expeditions and a chance to see the famous "white Spiti" landscapes. Traveling to Spiti in winter requires careful planning, specialized gear, and preparation for extreme temperatures and limited facilities, making it a daring experience for those seeking a true Himalayan adventure.

For a complete breakdown, check our Winter Spiti guide.

Every corner of Spiti Valley tells a story — from its ancient monasteries perched on cliffs to its remote mountain villages hidden among glaciers.

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Spiti Valley, each offering a unique mix of nature, spirituality, and adventure.

Nako & Kaza:

• Altitude: 12,500 ft The lively town of Kaza serves as the commercial and cultural capital of Spiti Valley. Divided into the old and new quarters, it combines ancient monasteries, local markets, and cozy cafés catering to bikers and backpackers alike.

Nearby, the tranquil Nako Village sits beside a crystal-clear lake surrounded by four Tibetan temples. The Nako Caves — believed to have been meditation sites of saints — add a spiritual charm to this serene spot.

Highlights:

• Explore the Kaza Market for local handicrafts
• Visit Nako Lake and Nako Monastery
• Ideal for acclimatization during a Spiti Valley bike trip itinerary

Langza – The Fossil Village

Known as the “Fossil Village” of Spiti, Langza is home to countless marine fossils and the iconic giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley. The village perfectly showcases traditional Spitian life, artistry, and Buddhist culture.

Don’t Miss:

• Fossil hunting walks with locals
• The 1,000-year-old Buddha statue facing the snow-capped Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak

Kunzum Pass (15,060 ft)

The legendary Kunzum La is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in Himachal Pradesh, connecting Lahaul and Spiti. It offers panoramic views of the Chandra Bhaga mountain range and serves as the gateway to Chandratal Lake.

Stop at the nearby village of Losar — the first settlement of Spiti — for tea and local hospitality.

Tip: Travelers often circle the Kunzum Devi Temple before crossing the pass, a traditional gesture for safe passage.

Kibber – Snow Leopard Territory

Kibber Village, situated at an altitude of 14,200 ft, is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. In winter, it becomes a hotspot for snow leopard spotting and wildlife photography.

Nearby stands the iconic Key Monastery, an architectural masterpiece and spiritual center of Spiti.

Must-Do:

• Visit Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary
• Explore Key Monastery (4,166 m / 13,668 ft)

Komic – The World’s Highest Village

At 15,027 ft, Komic holds the title of the highest village connected by a motorable road. The air is thin, but the peace is thick. The Tangyud Monastery, surrounded by prayer flags and snowy peaks, makes this an ideal stop for travelers seeking silence and scenic beauty.

Chicham Bridge – Asia’s Highest Bridge

At a staggering height of 13,500 ft, Chicham Bridge connects Chicham and Kibber villages. Once a dangerous ropeway crossing, this 135-meter-long bridge now stands as an engineering marvel and a thrill point for travelers.

Pro Tip: Stop here for photos — it’s one of the most Instagrammed spots on any Spiti bike tour package.

Pin Valley National Park

Home to rare Himalayan flora and fauna, Pin Valley is a contrast to the cold desert around it. The region is part of the Great Himalayan National Park network and shelters endangered species like the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Ibex.

Villages like Mudh and Sagnam are gateways to the park, offering homestays and treks through alpine forests and flower-filled meadows.

Highlights:

• Visit Kungri Monastery (Spiti’s 2nd oldest)
• Spot rare wildlife during winter expeditions

Hikkim – The World’s Highest Post Office

Located at 14,400 ft, Hikkim lets you send a letter to loved ones from the highest post office on Earth. The experience of mailing a postcard surrounded by mountains is one of the most nostalgic things to do in Spiti. Combine your visit with nearby Komic and Langza villages for a complete “Spiti circuit village trail.”

Chandratal Lake – The Moon Lake

Chandratal, translating to “Moon Lake,” sits at 14,100 ft and is one of the most photographed spots in Spiti Valley. The lake’s turquoise waters change colors throughout the day and mirror the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Camping by Chandratal under the star-filled sky is an unforgettable highlight of any Spiti Valley bike trip package.

Note: Camping is permitted only in designated areas 2 km away from the lake to protect its fragile ecosystem.

Famous Monasteries in Spiti Valley

No Spiti Valley tour is complete without visiting its famous ancient monasteries.

Key Monastery (Kye Gompa): Situated at a height of 4,166 meters (13,668 ft), the Key Monastery is the largest and most iconic monastery in Spiti. It serves as a religious training center for lamas and is a stunning example of monastic architecture, founded in the 11th century.

Tabo Monastery – The Ajanta of the Himalayas: Known as the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas', the Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest in India, functioning continuously since 996 AD. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its exquisite, preserved murals and stucco sculptures.

Dhankar Monastery – The Cliffside Wonder: Spectacularly perched on the edge of a 1,000-foot cliff (at 12,774 feet), the Dhankar Monastery offers a panoramic view of the Spiti and Pin River confluence. It is a significant monastic complex showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.

Kungri Monastery – The Cultural Gem of Pin Valley: Located in the Pin Valley, the Kungri Monastery is the second oldest in Spiti and follows the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. It is a unique center of Buddhist culture, attracting pilgrims and scholars.

A trip to Spiti Valley is not just about the destination — it’s about the experiences that stay with you long after the journey ends.

From adrenaline-pumping rides over high passes to peaceful monastery visits and stargazing under a billion stars, here are the best things to do in Spiti Valley that make it a traveler’s paradise.

• Bike Ride through Kunzum Pass: Experience the ultimate thrill of crossing one of India's highest motorable passes. Kunzum Pass, at an altitude of 4,551 meters (14,931 ft), is a highlight of any Spiti Valley bike trip. This high-altitude pass connects the Spiti Valley with Lahaul and offers panoramic views of the massive Bara-Shigri Glacier.

• Trek to Chandratal Lake (The Moon Lake): Embark on a short trek to the stunning, crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, this crystal-clear lake offers a serene setting for nature lovers. Camping at the designated sites nearby is a core experience of any Spiti Valley tour.

• Shopping in Nako Village: Explore the main market in Kaza (or smaller shops in villages like Nako) to buy unique gifts. Look for local handicrafts, woolens, prayer flags, and sea-buckthorn products to take home as memorable souvenirs.

• Post a Letter from Hikkim – The World’s Highest Post Office: Don't miss this iconic Spiti experience. Visit the post office in Hikkim (14,567 ft) to send postcards to friends and family from the highest post office on Earth.

• Meditation & Healing at Monasteries: Visit ancient monasteries like Tabo or Key to learn about the rich history of Tibetan Buddhism. In some centers, you may find monks or Amchis (traditional doctors) who can offer insights into Sowa-Rigpa (traditional Tibetan medicine) and its ancient healing methods.

• Stargazing in the Clear Himalayan Sky: Spiti Valley is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude and zero light pollution. From remote villages like Langza, Komic, or Nako, you can get a mesmerizing view of the Milky Way and countless stars.

• Try Authentic Spitian & Tibetan Cuisine: Delve into the culinary delights and must-have food in Spiti Valley. Be sure to try local dishes like Thukpa (hearty noodle soup), flavorful Momos, and Tsampa (roasted barley flour), often served with local butter tea. This is the best way to immerse yourself in the region's rich culture.

A Spiti Valley tour isn't just a vacation; it's an expedition. The roads are challenging, the altitude is serious, and the planning is complex. That's where we come in. JustWravel isn't just another travel company; we are Spiti specialists dedicated to making this high-altitude adventure seamless, safe, and unforgettable.

Safety & Expertise: Our First Priority

Spiti is not your average destination. Our Trip Captains are seasoned Himalayan travelers, trained in high-altitude AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) response and first aid. Your safety is our non-negotiable priority.

For our Spiti Valley bike trip groups, we provide experienced mechanics and a backup vehicle. This ensures your only job is to ride, soak in the views, and live your dream.

The "Wraveler" Community: Never Travel Alone

The best part of backpacking is the people you meet. Our trips are designed for solo travelers and small groups to come together. You'll start as a group of strangers but end the journey as a "Wraveler" bonded by experiences you'll share for a lifetime.

The Perfect Itinerary (Stress-Free)

Forget the stress of booking hotels, finding good food, and planning the route. We have perfected the Spiti Valley road trip itinerary. All your stays, transport, and (often) meals are taken care of.

Authentic & Local Experiences

We believe in responsible travel. Our trips are designed to give you an authentic taste of Spiti culture—from staying in comfortable, family-run Spiti Valley homestays to tasting local cuisine. We don't just show you the 'sights'; we help you connect with the 'soul' of Spiti.

Your Dream, Our Promise

Don't just tick Spiti off your bucket list. Experience it with us. When you book with JustWravel, you're not just buying a tour package; you're investing in a fully-managed, safety-first, and community-driven adventure.

Before you go, make sure to check our guide on things to pack for Spiti Valley to be fully prepared for the journey.

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?